Author Gina Schuh, Editor, Law and Advocacy

Gina, a C-5/6 quadriplegic, describes herself as a “politically incorrect foodie who is an equal opportunity offender.” Beyond that, Gina is a law school graduate who grew up on a farm in California. Gina’s true passion is food, and you’ll often find her posting food pictures on her Instagram under Culinary.Quad . Raised by a strong mother who had an insatiable appetite for any educational psychology materials, Gina swears she was raised by an unlicensed psychologist which led to her being so introspective. After people observed her success in dating, they asked for tips, which eventually led to her regular contribution here at Push Living on issues of dating, disability parking, and medical supply reimbursement, leading to the role of Editor of Law and Advocacy.

You know what’s sad about the disabled community? We’re okay with the bottom of the barrel representation we get in congress with the bare minimum in benefits. We’re told to be grateful for the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Housing Act (FHA) because we are “lucky” to have them.

When I broke my neck at 18, I quickly realized the world was not as accessible as I perceived it to be on two feet. I will be the first to admit my ignorance of disabilities and what the needs of the disabled were.

When I was first injured at the fifth cervical vertebrae I was categorized as a quadriplegic because I have paralysis in all four limbs. That paralysis includes my hands, which means I can’t move my hands and fingers, therefore they are always in a closed fist.

These medical supply companies have no accountability. Also, HIPAA bar’s me from asking about what other patients receive as far as cost of catheters. However, that doesn’t even matter because both Symbius and LoFric refused to give me any breakdown of charges.

We talked for hours with silent moments just grinning at each other. I thought he was different, and I was right. We fell for each other, and hard. I thought, “Finally, all the stars are falling into place, and I’m over my crazy.” I was wrong. I still struggled with trust and allowing myself to be vulnerable despite having a man who gave me no reason to distrust him.

Why don’t they have stricter standards? Ignorance. The federal and state laws are written by able-bodied people who couldn’t be more ignorant of what someone with a true disability needs. The current situation and laws perpetuate the stereotype that people with disabilities are second class citizens. There is a lack of knowledge, and that needs to change. Our medical field and government perpetually victimize people with disabilities. Whether it be handing out disabled parking to anyone who asks or ignoring our pleas for changes. We have voices for a reason, let’s use them to educate people and demand change. I smell a class action, because after all the only language these greedy bastards speak is $$$

When you actually know what your rights are you can ensure you don’t allow someone to trample over them. Educate yourself, demand change, and don’t be afraid to speak up against discrimination…for you and everyone succeeding you.